David Murphy, Daily News Staff Writer

Jayson Werth did not want to talk about his new look, a bushy beard and long hair that made you half expect to see him carrying around a Wilson volleyball with a bloody hand print.

He did, however, talk about his personal contract situation, which sees him entering 2010 in the final year of a two-year, $10 million deal. The Phillies already have more than $130 million guaranteed to 15 players next season, and they have said they do not expect their payroll to climb much higher than it's current state, which is right around $140 million.

"I think everybody knows the situation," Werth said. "It's no secret. But really, I'm focused on playing baseball and being part of another championship season."

Does he look at the contracts that Jason Bay and Matt Holliday landed -- both signed for more than $15 million annually -- and think he might be in line for a big pay-day?

"I think their situation is a little bit different from mine. I think I'm a season away from something like that, so really I'm just focused on having a good season and being part of something special here again. Really, these guys in here, I've been with them, this is my fourth year here, so it will be interesting to see how it goes, but these guys are great guys and just coming to work everyday with my teammates and my friends, that's what it's all about - coming in, working hard and playing the game of baseball. That's what I'm focused on."

Is he open to talking about an extension?

"We'll have to see. That's what I've got an agent for. They handle all that stuff. My focus is the Philadelphia Phillies and the guys in that clubhouse and the city of Philadelphia and winning another championship."

Would he rule out talking about an extension during the season?

"This is the first time I've been in a situation like that, dealing with a long term deal and extensions and all that. This is the first time I've had an opportunity at that. So we'll deal with that as it comes, but it's not something that I'll be focused on."